School Program More Info
University of Denver Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS)
ALA Accredited ALA-Accredited, No GRE Required. Complete in as few as 21 months.
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A few universities in the state of Colorado provide library science education at the graduate level. The exclusive Master's degree accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) is through the University of Denver. Another institution based in Denver, the University of Colorado, provides specialty education in teaching and digital media.

Denver is the state capital and largest city in the state of Colorado with over 700,000 residents. Other highly-populated areas, such as Colorado Springs and Fort Collins, feature universities and other organizations with library and media collection opportunities. The University of Colorado is spread out across four different locations with its main campus in Boulder, just outside of Denver (University of Colorado does have online programs).

Are There Online Library Science Degree Programs in Colorado?

Yes. Both library science programs at the University of Denver and University of Colorado are available online. Courses are distributed through the institution's learning management system (LMS). Various platforms require different technology needs, but frequently, access to a desktop or laptop computer with high-speed internet access is necessary.

Through the University of Denver, students access and complete course material through an asynchronous format. Each week, there is a live meeting among a small group of students to discuss content. Other resources include reviewing recorded lectures and interacting with other class members in a variety of ways.

The University of Colorado, Denver's CU Online offers the MA in Learning Design and Technology with an option to add a Teacher Librarian (K-12) endorsement from the Colorado Department of education. This fully online program emphasizes critical digital pedagogy for P-20 settings.

Students can complete their full education online in either program without any need to meet physically at the Denver campuses. Not all courses are offered in each semester of the online program. Some material may accessed through mobile devices with an Android or iOS operating system depending on the LMS.

List of the best campus-based and online CAEP, AASL, or ALA-Accredited library science degree programs in Colorado

University Degree Program Accreditation Format

University of Colorado Denver

MA in Information and Learning Technologies with Teacher Librarian Endorsement CAEP Campus

University of Denver

Dual Degree ALA Campus

University of Denver

Graduate Certificate ALA Campus

Consider a Sponsored Online Library Program Taking Applications

School Level Program
Syracuse University
Website
Master Online MS in Library and Information Science
ALA-accredited. No GRE required to apply. School Media Specialization available.
University of Denver
Website
Master Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS)
ALA-Accredited, No GRE Required.
St. John's University
Website
Master Online M.S. in Library and Information Science
ALA Accredited. Complete in as little as 2 years.
University of West Alabama
Website
Master Online Master of Education in Library Media
Develop knowledge and skills in school library media with our online library media specialist degree.
University of West Alabama
Website
Doctorate Online Ed.D. Rural Education: Library Media
Explore the essential role of library media within rural schools and districts.
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Are there on-campus library science degrees in Colorado?

Yes. The University of Colorado, Boulder offers a Master's of Science in Information Science through the College of Media, Communication, and Information. This research-focused program consists of 30 credit hours. Students may choose from the thesis or non-thesis plans. A CV or resume, unofficial transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose are required for admission. GRE scores and a writing sample are optional.

Located in northern Colorado, Boulder sits at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. The city boasts stunning views and many opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Those living in Boulder can also enjoy urban activities, such as shopping, dining, and events.

In Depth Review of Colorado Library Science Programs Updated for 2023

University of Denver's Master of Library and Information Science

The Morgridge College of Education offers the Master of Library and Information Science at the Denver-based campus or conveniently online. There is an option to emphasize studies in digital archiving with three specific courses in transition and management processes. Students may complete the program in as little as 21 months with full-time study.

19 total courses are offered in the program with full-time or part-time enrollment. Regardless of format and pathway, an internship with 100 clock hours is required to complete the degree. Most graduates from this program have gone on to become librarians in an academic or public setting.

University of Colorado-Denver's Master of Arts in Learning Design and Technology

The School of Education and Human Development has a Master's degree in the discipline of Learning Design and Technology. A specific librarian teaching pathway is offered that blends technology and leadership skills that fits any school requirements. Another option is receiving an endorsement in Instructional Technology for digital media opportunities in an elementary setting.

At least 30 credit hours are needed to complete the curriculum requirements. Course distribution is every 16 weeks through the traditional fall, spring, and summer semesters. In many cases, students can graduate from the program in approximately two years.

Why ALA accreditation?

ALA accreditation falls under the umbrella of education recognized by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). There are many other institutions across the state that feature CAEP accreditation in various teaching specialties. While the University of Colorado does not have ALA accreditation, they still provide education recognized by CAEP.

Standards set by the ALA committee focus on how the program is formed and what specific goals they have for their eventual graduates. The curriculum must be up-to-date with technological innovation and feature courses that focus on current and timely topics. Other material within the curriculum must feature information organization and communication skills.

Typical MLIS coursework at universities in Colorado

  • Library, Archival, and Information Science Foundations – This introductory course examines the history, social impact, and future of information professions. Students explore applicable theories and concepts, while examining professional organizations, publications, and current and future trends and issues.
  • Organization of Information – An examination of the theories and principles of information organization. Students learn basic concepts and technologies for representing physical and electronic resources in various information settings.
  • Access and User Services – Students explore user information needs, information seeking behaviors, cognitive processes, and related technology. Topics include traditional and emerging reference service tools, information literacy, and service assessment.
  • Information Organization Management – This course introduces contemporary theory and practice of information organization management. Students investigate various information settings, communication skills, decision-making, planning, budgeting, human resources, and leadership.
  • Library and Information Technologies – An introduction to the modern tools and technologies used in libraries, archives, and other information organizations. Emphasis is placed on the acquisition, evaluation, implementation, and assessment of information and communication technologies.
  • Designing for Teaching and Learning – Students analyze various tools and technologies designed for teaching and learning in face-to-face and online environments. Through hands-on exercises, students apply theory, test design, and develop prototypes.
  • Mentoring, Coaching, and Training – This course provides students an opportunity to learn theory and apply best practices for designing and facilitating professional development programs. An emphasis is placed on peer-to-peer interaction and collaboration. All P-20 professional settings are considered.
  • Research Methods in Education – An overview of research methods, tools, and designs with an emphasis on educational applications. Students consider qualitative and quantitative designs, methods of data collection and interpretation, and measurement techniques.
  • Capstone – This culminating project allows students to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities related to program learning objectives. Students will complete and submit an artifact as evidence of integration and synthesis of learning experiences.

Why ALA accreditation

ALA accreditation falls under the umbrella of education recognized by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). There are many other institutions across the state that feature CAEP accreditation in various teaching specialties. While the University of Colorado does not have ALA accreditation, they still provide education recognized by CAEP.

Standards set by the ALA committee focus on how the program is formed and what specific goals they have for their eventual graduates. The curriculum must be up-to-date with technological innovation and feature courses that focus on current and timely topics. Other material within the curriculum must feature information organization and communication skills.

Librarian Licensure Requirements for Colorado

For school librarian licensure, students need at least a Bachelor’s degree and a teaching license. Some positions may require a graduate program from an accredited institution. This degree must be within a discipline of library science that features an internship. Students must pass the Program for Licensing Assessments for Colorado Educators (PLACE) exam with a score of 220 or higher.

Career Options in Library Media in Colorado

Colorado is one of the top states in the western half of the country for librarian and media collection job opportunities. According to the US Bureau of Labor StatisticsBLS, the state has around 2,000 positions recognized in this field. The Denver and Colorado Springs area account for over half of the employment in the state.

There are many job options within the various public library systems and universities established across the state. Some of the largest institutions include the universities mentioned, Colorado Sate University in Fort Collins, and Colorado Technical University in Colorado Springs. The Denver Public Library has various branches for employment options and also provides services to help individuals get jobs at other organizations.

Licensure Requirements for Colorado

For school librarian licensure, students need at least a Bachelor’s degree and a teaching license. Some positions may require a graduate program from an accredited institution. This degree must be within a discipline of library science that features an internship. Students must pass the Program for Licensing Assessments for Colorado Educators (PLACE) exam with a score of 220 or higher.

Denver Public Library

Over 2,000,000 items are in the Denver Public Library’s collections, across 25 different branches. The Central Library is on Broadway and West 14th Avenue as of 1956, and saw an addition to its building in 1995. There are two bookmobiles also available that provide further access to underserved areas.

The Western History Department worked to digitize various items to preserve historical data and provide easier access to these materials online. This took place between 1995 and 2005. Statewide archiving of historical information continues through the Colorado Virtual Library.

Salary Estimates in Colorado

Over $62,650 is estimated for the annual mean wage by the BLS toward library positions. This falls around the equivalent of the national average and is accurate as of May 2021. These figures jump to over $85,200 within the top 10 percent of earners and all averages are higher in the Denver metropolitan area.

Sample List of Top Librarian Careers in Colorado

Recent job postings for Library of Science degree holders in Colorado:

  • Instructional Assessment Librarian at the University of Colorado – Colorado Springs, Kraemer Family Library – salary $45,000 to $48,000
  • Computer Science, Mathematics, & Social Sciences Librarian at the University of Colorado Boulder Libraries – salary $66,000 to $70,000
  • UX Librarian at Colorado State University Libraries – salary $66,000 to $75,000
  • Metadata Librarian at the Metadata Librarian – salary $79,000 to $94,000
  • Metadata Management Librarian at Colorado State University – $70,000 to $85,000
  • Librarian/Assistant Branch Manager at the Pueblo City-County Public Library – salary $46,675 to $65,353
  • Executive Director at Anythink Libraries – salary $150,000 to $180,000
  • Librarian, Spanish Language Services for the Arapahoe Library District – salary $53,700 to $67,00
  • Adult Services Librarian for the City of Englewood – salary $57,970 to $86,955
  • Metadata Initiatives Librarian at the Colorado School of Mines – salary $64,100 to $75,180